LifeAt is a developer of modular productivity software that aims to enhance focus and productivity for its users. The company's innovative tool offers virtual workspaces featuring videos of calming landscapes and serene scenarios, creating a tranquil environment conducive to studying and working. By incorporating peaceful music and the presence of well-known influencers or celebrities, LifeAt's platform seeks to elevate the user experience and maintain concentration. The company's approach not only simplifies productivity management but also encourages users to engage in focused work while minimizing distractions.
Stacked Restaurants
Series A in 2022
Stacked Restaurants, LLC, established in 2009 and based in Yorba Linda, California, operates full-service restaurants across the state. The company specializes in contemporary casual dining, offering guests a unique, interactive experience. Using proprietary tabletop touchscreen technology or mobile devices, customers can fully customize their meals from a wide range of specialty ingredients, creating a personalized and entertaining dining experience. Additionally, Stacked provides delivery, online ordering, and catering services.
Toonsquare
Series A in 2022
Toonsquare is a content production platform that allows users to create comic-style content easily and effectively. The platform offers a wide array of high-quality resources, including characters, backgrounds, and props, which are accessible to individuals, organizations, schools, and institutions at no cost. Toonsquare emphasizes user-friendly design and provides copyright-free materials, enabling users to focus on their creative endeavors without legal concerns. The company also leverages artificial intelligence to enhance the comic creation process, facilitating digital storytelling and artistic expression in various contexts, particularly in remote environments. Through its innovative approach, Toonsquare aims to enrich individuals' digital creative activities and integrate them into everyday life.
The Parentinc
Corporate Round in 2022
Tickled Media Pte. Ltd. is a digital publishing company based in Singapore that operates an online platform dedicated to parenting information. The platform, primarily through its flagship brand theAsianparent.com, provides resources and community support for mothers, covering a wide range of topics including pregnancy, childbirth, child development, family life, and wellness. It aims to create non-judgmental communities where users can share experiences and advice. The company also offers online strategy services, community acquisition plans, and advertising and market research services to enhance its digital presence and user engagement. Tickled Media serves a diverse audience across several countries in Asia and beyond, reaching over 11 million mothers. Founded in 2009, the company has secured venture capital backing from notable investors and continues to expand its influence in the digital parenting space.
Mellia
Venture Round in 2020
Mellia Inc., founded in 2007 and based in Chuo, Japan, specializes in the beauty and personal care sector. The company offers a diverse range of products, including cosmetics, body care items, and feminine hygiene products, such as intimate washes and wipes. Mellia is dedicated to empowering women by providing products that enhance personal freshness and confidence. In addition to its product offerings, the company also engages in public relations planning, business collaboration, and sales promotion services, while distributing its products through both online platforms and physical retail locations.
Founded in Thailand in 2017, Sunday is the first full-stack InsurTech group adopting data models and technology to offer multiple insurance products and services across the entire customer journey. The company provides auto insurance, health insurance, and travel insurance. Sunday reinvents the entire insurance offering and experience to ensure that customers' needs are met anytime, anywhere.
Photosynth
Private Equity Round in 2020
Photosynth Inc. is an information technology company based in Tokyo, Japan, that specializes in the development of smart locks for residential properties. Founded on September 1, 2014, the company focuses on research and development in the realm of internet of things (IoT) devices and cloud-related technologies. Additionally, Photosynth designs and operates cloud-based entrance and exit management systems, enhancing security and access control for homes. Through its innovative solutions, Photosynth aims to improve the safety and convenience of modern living.
Let is a food technology company. The company administers the "Let" app, which allows you to buy non-standard items, closeout items, and goods with "translations" such as expiration dates. It is an app that connects food products that cannot be distributed through traditional distribution channels with those who wish to help reduce food waste by purchasing such products.
Sproot
Corporate Round in 2020
Sproot is an entertainment company that engages in the media and entertainment business.
iPrice Group
Series B in 2020
iPrice Group is an online price comparison platform that aims to enhance the e-commerce experience for shoppers in Southeast Asia by offering a diverse selection of products from numerous online retailers. The company provides users with the ability to compare prices, discover various products, and find the best deals across multiple categories, including electronics, fashion, home improvements, and baby products. By partnering with hundreds of online shops, iPrice facilitates a transparent and convenient shopping experience. Established in Kuala Lumpur, the company has rapidly expanded its presence across seven markets, including Indonesia, Vietnam, Singapore, Hong Kong, Thailand, and the Philippines. With a mission to boost trust and convenience in the e-commerce sector, iPrice leverages international expertise in technology and online marketing to serve its customers effectively.
Scalar, Inc. is a data management technology company based in Tokyo, Japan, founded in 2017. The company specializes in researching and developing software solutions that utilize distributed ledger technology. Its primary products include Scalar DB, a distributed database software, and Scalar DL, a distributed ledger software. These solutions are designed to support business operators in transforming their operations by leveraging the scalability and tamper-resistant features of distributed register technology. In addition to its core software offerings, Scalar also provides analytics services to enhance data management capabilities.
Let is a food technology company. The company administers the "Let" app, which allows you to buy non-standard items, closeout items, and goods with "translations" such as expiration dates. It is an app that connects food products that cannot be distributed through traditional distribution channels with those who wish to help reduce food waste by purchasing such products.
Time Bank is an application that allows you to experience a great deal with a little clearance time.
JustInCase
Series A in 2019
JustInCase, Inc. is an innovative InsurTech company founded in 2016 and based in Tokyo, Japan. It specializes in providing a range of insurance services, including smartphone repair cost insurance, accident insurance, and coverage specifically designed for COVID-19. The company leverages artificial intelligence to enhance the insurance purchasing experience, allowing users to upload details and photos of their devices to determine premiums seamlessly. JustInCase also offers a mobile application that enables customers to buy insurance coverage from various providers, as well as options for pooling to pay insurance premiums. Additionally, the company aims to digitize insurance operations and improve customer interactions through its diverse offerings, which also include healthtech insurance products.
Line Taxi
Series A in 2019
LINE TAXI is an online taxi-hailing service that leverages advanced chatbot technology to enhance the commuting experience for users. It offers a convenient platform where individuals can request rides by inputting their pickup and drop-off locations. The service facilitates seamless communication between users and drivers, enabling fare payments and post-ride feedback. By integrating online and offline interactions, LINE TAXI aims to deliver a smart and user-friendly ride-hailing experience, making transportation more accessible and efficient for commuters.
Amartha is a microfinance technology platform dedicated to fostering economic growth at the grassroots level by facilitating connections between micro and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and investors. The platform enables entrepreneurs, particularly in rural areas, to access microfinance loans through user-friendly mobile applications and websites. By bridging the gap between potential lenders and borrowers, Amartha aims to create equal opportunities for prosperity, thereby contributing to the overall development of local economies.
Welmo Inc. is a Tokyo-based company dedicated to enhancing the care and welfare industry through artificial intelligence technology. Founded in 2013, it focuses on developing innovative solutions to support decision-making in medical, disability, and long-term care contexts. Welmo has created Japan's largest welfare service platform, known as MILMO, and its Care Plan Assistant (CPA) application, which utilizes information and communication technology, including natural language processing, to aid caregivers in creating effective care plans for the elderly. The platform is designed to streamline nursing-related operations and provides a centralized resource for care coordination. Additionally, Welmo operates educational facilities aimed at supporting the development of disabled children, exemplifying its commitment to social welfare and inclusivity. The company also maintains an office in Fukuoka, further extending its reach within Japan.
Loyyal
Venture Round in 2019
Loyyal Corporation is a San Francisco-based company that specializes in providing a loyalty and rewards platform utilizing blockchain and smart contract technology. Founded in 2014, the company aims to enhance customer retention and profitability through innovative infrastructure solutions that promote interoperability within the fragmented loyalty industry. Loyyal's platform features dynamic interoperability, scalability, real-time value transfers, and enhanced security for records. Additionally, it offers programmable rewards and improved liability management options, allowing clients to tailor the loyalty experience to meet the unique needs of their customers. Formerly known as Ribbit.me! USA Inc., the company rebranded to Loyyal Corporation in April 2016 to better reflect its focus on revolutionizing loyalty programs.
One Media
Venture Round in 2019
One Media, Inc. is a Tokyo-based company established in 2014 that specializes in visual storytelling through animated messages. The company offers a comprehensive suite of services, including YouTube channel production, social media video creation, marketing, and live stream planning. One Media focuses on transforming client messages into engaging video content, emphasizing in-house capabilities for video distribution, viewing data analysis, and creative planning. By maintaining control over the entire production process, One Media aims to deliver distinctive and valuable video content tailored to its clients' needs.
Snaq me
Venture Round in 2019
snaq.me operated by Snack Me Co., Ltd. is personalized subscription service for Guilt Free® snacks that do not feel guilty when eaten. Using the “Tasting Box” with 12 kinds of tasting snacks for the first time, and evaluating each of the snacks, we created a “preference profile” regarding the taste and texture preference of each customer, totaling 600 Eight kinds of snacks are selected and delivered from our original algorithm. In addition, each time you deliver it, you will receive a review and request for snacks, so you can select it to your liking every time you repeat it. Since only products that meet the original Guilt Free standard (white sugar / artificial additives / HFCS / margarine / shortening-free) are handled, many pregnant women continue to use it and have been well received. . The ratio of female customers is over 90%, and it is used widely by pregnant women, moms with small children, working women, and so on.
Limakilo is an online marketplace dedicated to improving the food supply chain for farmers in Indonesia. Originating from the community initiative Code4Nation, the company aims to facilitate direct sales of agricultural commodities, allowing farmers to connect with food stalls and vendors. By enabling farmers to sell their produce, such as food grains and crops, directly to end users, Limakilo seeks to shorten the supply chain and minimize inventory storage time. This approach not only benefits farmers by increasing their market access but also provides consumers with fresher food options.
HappyFresh
Series C in 2019
HappyFresh is a leading online grocery company based in Jakarta, Indonesia, with operations extending to Malaysia and Thailand since its establishment in 2015. The company aims to simplify the grocery shopping experience by providing a platform where customers can order groceries from local stores and have them delivered directly to their doors. With a focus on high-quality service, HappyFresh employs trained personal shoppers who ensure that customers receive fresh and carefully selected products. This approach alleviates the challenges associated with traditional grocery shopping, such as parking, navigating aisles, and carrying heavy bags, allowing customers to save time and enjoy a more convenient shopping experience. HappyFresh has gained recognition as one of Asia's best companies to work for, reflecting its commitment to both customer satisfaction and employee welfare.
Perx Technologies
Series B in 2019
Perx Technologies, established in 2011 and rebranded in 2016, specializes in a loyalty and customer engagement platform. Based in Singapore, the company's core offering, Perx Enterprise Platform, leverages AI and behavioral science to create personalized, data-driven marketing campaigns. It enables businesses to predict trends, enhance customer interactions, and drive growth through gamification, social media integration, and geolocalization features.
Line Pay
Corporate Round in 2019
LINE Pay Corporation, founded in 2014 and based in Japan, specializes in mobile money transfer and purchasing solutions. As a subsidiary of LINE Corporation, it offers a platform that facilitates seamless transactions for users. The service enhances customer engagement by allowing businesses to deliver real-time information and marketing coupons to users who have added the business as a friend after completing a payment. This approach not only streamlines the payment process but also encourages repeat purchases, making it a valuable tool for merchants looking to boost customer loyalty and improve their marketing strategies.
Warung Pintar Group
Series A in 2019
Warung Pintar Group is a micro retail technology company focused on digitalizing grassroots businesses in Indonesia. The company aims to empower underserved communities by enhancing the quality of street stalls through innovative solutions. Warung Pintar offers smart kiosk stores that feature modern amenities such as digital point-of-sale systems, free Wi-Fi, LCD screens, and power bank chargers. By leveraging data processing and analysis, the company provides valuable insights for financial inclusion and community engagement, fostering opportunities for social security and behavior analysis. Additionally, Warung Pintar assists aspiring entrepreneurs in securing land and funding to establish new shops, ultimately contributing to local economic development and impact monitoring within the community.
IDN Media Company is a multi-platform digital media organization based in Surabaya, Indonesia, catering primarily to affluent Millennials and Gen Z. Established in 2014, it operates several key platforms, including IDNtimes.com, which offers a variety of engaging content such as visuals, quizzes, and listicles. The company also runs IDNtv, an online video producer focused on web series, social experiments, and branded content. Additionally, it owns Popbela.com, a lifestyle platform aimed at young urban women, and IDN Creative, which specializes in native advertising, creating sponsored content and events for brands. Furthermore, IDN Media organizes live events through IDN Event, providing a stage for creativity and talent among its target audience. With over 80 million monthly active users, IDN Media strives to democratize information access across Indonesia while fostering positive societal impacts.
Sellsuki
Acquisition in 2018
Sellsuki is an e-commerce platform based in Bangkok, Thailand, designed to facilitate sales for shops on social media, particularly Facebook. The platform addresses the unique challenges of e-commerce in Southeast Asia, where a significant portion of transactions occurs through chat and messaging apps. Sellsuki enables users to manage orders, handle invoicing, and collect payments efficiently, significantly improving operational productivity. By providing features that allow sellers to filter messages by order status, manage shipping, and streamline customer interactions, Sellsuki enhances the ability of shops to engage with customers and fulfill orders. As a subsidiary of LINE Corporation, Sellsuki aims to establish itself as the leading e-commerce solution for social sellers in the region.
OkieLa is a technology company that develops mobile applications designed to connect buyers and sellers, facilitating business growth by optimizing operations. Their platform enables users to shop, sell, and engage directly with one another, allowing businesses to focus more on core activities.
GrayHash
Acquisition in 2018
GrayHash is described as an online security research centre specialising in “offensive research” and counter-hacking techniques.
Crowd Credit
Series D in 2018
Crowdcredit is a cross-border marketplace lending platform that connects borrowers in financial deficit countries with investors in financial surplus countries. The company provides risk capital to individuals and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) facing funding challenges. By offering attractive lending opportunities, Crowdcredit enables Japanese investors to lend to borrowers in a range of countries, including Peru, Cameroon, Estonia, Finland, Spain, and Italy. The platform aims to address the funding gaps experienced by borrowers while providing investors with viable credit investment options. In addition to its current operations, Crowdcredit plans to expand its lending activities into the Asian region outside of Japan.
Evolany
Venture Round in 2018
Evolany, established in 2018 and headquartered in Yokohama, Japan, specializes in developing software applications for business automation. The company's core product is a CRM suite that integrates with e-commerce platforms and offers reservation management tools. Evolany's platform transforms LINE and SNS messengers, along with telephone, email, and web channels, into advanced customer management tools. It automates sales and marketing operations, promoting store visits and purchases through event notifications and coupons. The company serves a diverse range of industries, including cosmetics, retail, wholesale, and supermarket chains, as well as automobile, education, food and beverage, shopping mall, medical institutions, and hospitality sectors.
KKday.com International Company Limited is an e-commerce platform based in Taipei, Taiwan, founded in 2014. It specializes in connecting travelers with authentic local tours and activities across various countries and cities. The platform enables users to search, discover, and book a diverse range of curated experiences, facilitating access to off-the-beaten-path activities. In addition to serving travelers, KKday supports local travel suppliers by providing essential tools for product management and order fulfillment, thereby aiding their digital transformation.
AnyMind Group
Series B in 2018
AnyMind Group, established in Singapore in 2016, operates as an end-to-end commerce enablement company. It develops interconnected software and solutions that facilitate business operations across various stages, from brand building and manufacturing to e-commerce, marketing, logistics, and global expansion. With a mission to make businesses borderless by bridging gaps between customers, online and offline channels, industries, and geographical boundaries, AnyMind Group has expanded its presence to 13 markets across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East.
Fastwork, founded in 2015 by a team of engineers and entrepreneurs from Silicon Valley and New York, is a prominent freelancing platform in Southeast Asia, recognized for its extensive user base and project completions. The company aims to enhance the business and employment landscape in the region by providing a simple, efficient, and cost-effective solution for businesses seeking freelancers. With over 300,000 businesses utilizing its platform, Fastwork offers a diverse range of services, including graphic design, online marketing, data entry, and web and app development. The platform not only connects clients with suitable freelancers for short-term projects but also facilitates essential tools for freelancers, such as payment collection, service promotion, order management, file exchange, and client communication, enabling seamless collaboration anytime and anywhere.
CHOCOLABS
Acquisition in 2018
CHOCOLABS was established in September 2011 in Taiwan. Its current portfolio adds up to total of 62 APPs, more than 12M downloads and 1.8M monthly active users. CHOCOLABS aims to create the perfect living circle by offering users the APPs to ease their daily lives. In present mobile era, CHOCOLABS continues to be dedicated to making users lives more convenient through “App Your Life” experience.
ZUZU Hospitality
Series A in 2018
ZUZU Hospitality Solutions, based in Singapore, specializes in providing comprehensive online revenue management and marketing services tailored for small hotels. The company offers a unified software and service platform that encompasses sales and marketing solutions, acting as the primary partner for hoteliers to drive revenue growth through efficient distribution and revenue management strategies. This enables hoteliers to focus on their core operations while ZUZU powers their back-office revenue generation business.
Bespo Co., Ltd., established in 2018 and headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, specializes in designing and developing a platform for restaurants. Its core product is a mobile restaurant reservation application that facilitates table bookings via LINE's messaging service, aiming to modernize and streamline the dining experience for both customers and restaurants.
Scalar, Inc. is a data management technology company based in Tokyo, Japan, founded in 2017. The company specializes in researching and developing software solutions that utilize distributed ledger technology. Its primary products include Scalar DB, a distributed database software, and Scalar DL, a distributed ledger software. These solutions are designed to support business operators in transforming their operations by leveraging the scalability and tamper-resistant features of distributed register technology. In addition to its core software offerings, Scalar also provides analytics services to enhance data management capabilities.
iPrice Group
Corporate Round in 2018
iPrice Group is an online price comparison platform that aims to enhance the e-commerce experience for shoppers in Southeast Asia by offering a diverse selection of products from numerous online retailers. The company provides users with the ability to compare prices, discover various products, and find the best deals across multiple categories, including electronics, fashion, home improvements, and baby products. By partnering with hundreds of online shops, iPrice facilitates a transparent and convenient shopping experience. Established in Kuala Lumpur, the company has rapidly expanded its presence across seven markets, including Indonesia, Vietnam, Singapore, Hong Kong, Thailand, and the Philippines. With a mission to boost trust and convenience in the e-commerce sector, iPrice leverages international expertise in technology and online marketing to serve its customers effectively.
Warung Pintar Group
Seed Round in 2018
Warung Pintar Group is a micro retail technology company focused on digitalizing grassroots businesses in Indonesia. The company aims to empower underserved communities by enhancing the quality of street stalls through innovative solutions. Warung Pintar offers smart kiosk stores that feature modern amenities such as digital point-of-sale systems, free Wi-Fi, LCD screens, and power bank chargers. By leveraging data processing and analysis, the company provides valuable insights for financial inclusion and community engagement, fostering opportunities for social security and behavior analysis. Additionally, Warung Pintar assists aspiring entrepreneurs in securing land and funding to establish new shops, ultimately contributing to local economic development and impact monitoring within the community.
Freee is a developer of cloud-based accounting software designed for small and medium-sized businesses in Japan. Launched in March 2013 and originally named CFO K.K., the company was founded by Daisuke Sasaki, who previously led SMB marketing for Google in the Asia Pacific region. Freee's automated online accounting software seamlessly syncs with bank accounts, allowing users to automatically categorize entries and generate financial reports. In addition to its core accounting product, Freee also offers cloud-based HR labor software and cloud ERP solutions for midsize companies. The company operates on a freemium model, with paid plans starting at approximately 980 JPY per month. Freee gained recognition by winning the Invinity Ventures Summit Launch Pad in 2013, a prestigious demo event in Japan.
Venture Republic
Venture Round in 2018
Venture Republic Inc. is a Tokyo-based company specializing in online travel services. Founded in 2013, it operates a suite of travel-related websites, including Travel.jp and Hotel.jp, which provide users with tools for searching, comparing, and booking both domestic and international trips. The company focuses on delivering comprehensive travel information and services, including hotel reviews and price comparisons, to assist users in their travel planning and purchasing decisions. By expanding its offerings and leveraging its expertise, Venture Republic aims to be a reliable resource for travelers seeking answers to their travel-related questions.
JustInCase
Seed Round in 2018
JustInCase, Inc. is an innovative InsurTech company founded in 2016 and based in Tokyo, Japan. It specializes in providing a range of insurance services, including smartphone repair cost insurance, accident insurance, and coverage specifically designed for COVID-19. The company leverages artificial intelligence to enhance the insurance purchasing experience, allowing users to upload details and photos of their devices to determine premiums seamlessly. JustInCase also offers a mobile application that enables customers to buy insurance coverage from various providers, as well as options for pooling to pay insurance premiums. Additionally, the company aims to digitize insurance operations and improve customer interactions through its diverse offerings, which also include healthtech insurance products.
Pulit Inc. is a Tokyo-based company established in 2015 that specializes in the development of distribution technologies for digital image and video content. The company focuses on creating solutions that facilitate direct connections between content creators and users, leveraging advanced digital watermarking technology known as RIC. Through its innovative approach, Pulit aims to enhance the accessibility and security of digital media distribution, positioning itself as a significant player in the digital content landscape.
Catalog
Seed Round in 2018
Catalog Technologies Inc. specializes in a DNA-based platform that revolutionizes digital data storage and computation. Founded in 2016 and headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, the company provides a method for encoding digital information into DNA, making it a viable and cost-effective solution for long-term data archiving. By leveraging advanced synthetic biology technologies, Catalog aims to transform how information is stored, allowing customers to utilize DNA molecules as a primary medium for digital records. This innovative approach positions Catalog at the forefront of next-generation data storage solutions.
GeoLogic Japan
Series A in 2018
GeoLogic analyzes massive amounts of data, such as location information and Internet ad distribution, to determine who, where, and what your true customers are doing. Allow the organization to handle the complex big data analysis and focus on your marketing operations.
CoHive, formerly known as EV Hive, is Indonesia's largest co-working space provider, headquartered in Jakarta. The company offers a comprehensive ecosystem that includes co-working, co-living, co-retail, and event spaces, designed to foster community and support the growth of startups and small to medium enterprises (SMEs). With around 9,000 members across 33 locations in major cities such as Jakarta, Medan, Yogyakarta, and Bali, CoHive spans approximately 66,000 square meters of shared workspace. The majority of its members are startups and SMEs, while the remaining clientele includes enterprises from diverse industries. CoHive aims to be a pivotal community builder in Indonesia by connecting individuals and businesses, facilitating knowledge sharing, and providing flexible and affordable workspace solutions. The leadership team includes Co-founder and CEO Jason Lee, Co-founder and CCO Ethan Choi, COO Erich Hirawan, and CRO Iris Wee.
Mobilus
Corporate Round in 2018
Mobilus Corporation, established in Tokyo, Japan in 2011, specializes in developing real-time communication platforms for mobile devices. The company leverages artificial intelligence to enhance its offerings, serving major carriers and system integrators.
iPrice Group
Series B in 2018
iPrice Group is an online price comparison platform that aims to enhance the e-commerce experience for shoppers in Southeast Asia by offering a diverse selection of products from numerous online retailers. The company provides users with the ability to compare prices, discover various products, and find the best deals across multiple categories, including electronics, fashion, home improvements, and baby products. By partnering with hundreds of online shops, iPrice facilitates a transparent and convenient shopping experience. Established in Kuala Lumpur, the company has rapidly expanded its presence across seven markets, including Indonesia, Vietnam, Singapore, Hong Kong, Thailand, and the Philippines. With a mission to boost trust and convenience in the e-commerce sector, iPrice leverages international expertise in technology and online marketing to serve its customers effectively.
True Balance
Series B in 2018
True Balance is a digital wallet operated by Balancehero India Private Limited, designed to provide a range of financial services to its users. Launched in 2014 by CEO Charlie Lee, the platform serves approximately 70 million users across India, focusing primarily on the unbanked population. True Balance enables customers to perform utility bill payments, engage in e-commerce transactions, and access essential insurance products, as well as online lending services. By offering these financial solutions, True Balance aims to enhance financial inclusion and meet the everyday money management needs of its users.
Funding Societies
Series B in 2018
Funding Societies, established in 2015 and headquartered in Singapore, operates a digital financing platform that connects small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with investors. The company facilitates business loans, focusing on quick and efficient financing solutions, often bypassing traditional banking methods. It offers a range of flexible financing options, including micro and term loans, and invoice financing, using advanced credit scoring and risk assessment models. With operations across Southeast Asia, including Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand, Funding Societies caters to SMEs seeking accessible and timely financing.
Fairy Devices
Venture Round in 2018
Fairy Devices Inc is a Japanese company established in 2007, located in Bunkyo-Ku, that specializes in research and development in machine learning, particularly focused on audio and voice recognition. The company is known for its innovative cloud-based API service, mimi, which facilitates the creation of voice dialogue systems for commercial applications, particularly for corporate clients. This platform supports a range of functionalities including speech recognition, machine translation, speech synthesis, and emotion recognition, making it suitable for diverse uses such as voice transcription, multilingual translation, interactive robotics, and smart home technologies. Additionally, Fairy Devices develops and sells Fairy I/O, a series of voice input/output hardware solutions, contributing to its mission of bridging the interaction between machines and users through advanced voice processing technology.
FOLIO
Venture Round in 2018
FOLIO Co., Ltd., based in Tokyo, Japan, operates a web-based asset management platform that simplifies the investment process through the use of artificial intelligence. The platform allows users to diversify their investments by selecting specific themes and provides tools for both active and passive stock traders to manage their personal trading securities. By enabling investors to engage with multiple companies, FOLIO helps users mitigate risks associated with stock price fluctuations, making asset management more accessible and efficient.
Meituan Bike
Private Equity Round in 2017
Meituan Bike, previously known as Mobike, is a Chinese bicycle-sharing service that operates a fully station-less model. Founded in January 2015 by Davis Wang Xiao Feng, Hu Wei Wei, and Xia Yi Ping, the company is headquartered in Beijing. Meituan Bike allows users to easily locate and rent bicycles through a mobile application, facilitating convenient transportation for short urban trips. The bicycles are equipped with smart locks and can be reserved via the app, offering a seamless user experience. In April 2018, the company was acquired by Meituan-Dianping for $2.7 billion and was rebranded as Meituan Bike in January 2019 as part of the integration process. The service has grown significantly since its inception, contributing to the development of urban mobility solutions in China.
FIVE Inc. is a company based in Shibuya-ku, Japan, that develops and operates a mobile video distribution platform. Founded in 2014, it provides services primarily aimed at advertisers, agencies, and media site owners. The company's offerings include Moments by FIVE, a branding marketplace application, and Video Network by FIVE, a specialized mobile video network that delivers creative services. In 2017, FIVE was acquired by LINE Corp., enhancing its capabilities in the mobile video advertising sector within Japan.
Groove X Inc., established in Tokyo, Japan in 2015, specializes in designing and developing innovative household robots equipped with artificial intelligence and social robotics. The company's primary focus is creating robots that provide companionship and evoke genuine affection, aiming to address societal challenges such as aging populations, nuclear families, and dual-income households.
TalkIQ is a technology company that specializes in voice-to-text transcription and analytics, offering its services to a diverse range of industries since its inception in 2014. The company's innovative platform utilizes advanced deep-learning algorithms and proprietary speech recognition technology to provide businesses with insights derived from customer conversations. Through a user-friendly dashboard, TalkIQ synthesizes these interactions, enabling clients to access actionable data and recommendations in real-time. This functionality helps organizations optimize sales, enhance customer service, ensure compliance, and improve overall productivity by recognizing key moments in customer interactions, such as purchase intent and objection handling. With a leadership team experienced in speech and language recognition, TalkIQ is positioned to transform how businesses learn from and respond to their customer conversations.
Appier Inc., established in 2012 and headquartered in Taipei, Taiwan, specializes in providing AI-powered platforms for enterprises worldwide. Its suite of products includes Aideal for driving purchase decisions, AIQUA for proactive customer engagement, AIXON for unified data science, and CrossX for AI-driven advertising solutions. Appier serves approximately 1,000 global brands and agencies across Asia from its offices in 14 markets, helping businesses make data-driven decisions to increase customer engagement and predict user behavior without the need for specialized AI engineers.
Syte is a technology company based in Tel Aviv that specializes in developing a product discovery platform aimed at enhancing online shopping experiences. Utilizing advanced visual AI technology, Syte transforms the way consumers search and shop for fashion by enabling features such as camera search, augmented site search, and personalized recommendations. Their solutions allow users to upload images of products they find inspiring, which the platform then matches with visually similar items available on a retailer’s site. Additionally, Syte offers smart merchandising tools to help retailers improve site navigation and product discovery, ultimately driving sales and fostering brand loyalty. Founded in 2014 by Helge Voss, Idan Pinto, Lihi Pinto Fryman, and Ofer Fryman, the company has successfully raised $71 million from various investors to further its mission of revolutionizing the online shopping landscape.
DGM59, established in 2010 and based in Bangkok, Thailand, specializes in designing and developing software solutions for the marketing industry. As a subsidiary of LINE Thailand Company since 2017, the company collaborates closely with its clients, transforming their ideas into reality through a user-centric approach that combines intuitive UX design and simple, user-friendly interfaces.
Next Floor
Acquisition in 2017
Next Floor, established in 2015 in Salzburg, Austria, is a venture capital firm that invests in and supports early-stage startups, primarily in the tourism, art & culture, sustainability, and care/medicine sectors. The company hosts semi-annual investor lounges, bringing together experts, investors, and startups for pitching and evaluation. Since its inception, Next Floor has invested in six companies, leading two rounds. Additionally, it runs an accelerator program, selecting promising startups four times a year to help them accelerate their business in the specified sectors.
Bear Robotics
Angel Round in 2017
Bear Robotics, Inc. is a company based in Redwood City, California, that designs and manufactures autonomous robots specifically for the food service industry. Incorporated in 2017, Bear Robotics developed Penny, an artificial intelligence-driven robot that efficiently transports food, dishes, and drinks, while also providing customer service in restaurants. The company's innovative solutions aim to address challenges within the restaurant industry, such as labor shortages and rising operational costs, by enhancing efficiency and improving the dining experience for customers. By automating tasks like running orders and bussing tables, Bear Robotics not only seeks to increase job satisfaction for restaurant employees but also aims to boost profitability for restaurant owners.
Orfeo SoundWorks
Seed Round in 2017
Orfeo SoundWorks is an engineering-focused research and development company established in 2015 in Korea, with additional offices in the United States and South Korea. The company specializes in designing high-quality audio devices aimed at delivering superior sound and facilitating clear communications for its customers. Orfeo SoundWorks operates primarily in two domains: the development of premium noise-blocking Bluetooth earphones and providing business-to-business audio solutions. Its innovative devices are engineered to eliminate background noise, ensuring that users can communicate effectively even in challenging environments.
vinclu
Acquisition in 2017
Vinclu designs, develops, and manufactures smartphone accessories. The company is based in Tokyo, Japan.
SoundHound AI
Series D in 2017
SoundHound AI is a technology company specializing in voice-enabled artificial intelligence and conversational intelligence solutions. Founded in 2005 and based in Santa Clara, California, the company offers a range of products, including Hound, a voice-enabled search engine, and SoundHound, a music search and discovery application. Additionally, it provides Houndify, a platform that supports natural language understanding, speech recognition, and the ability to process complex queries. SoundHound AI helps brands create customized conversational experiences, allowing them to voice-enable their products and access valuable data for enhanced customer interactions. With locations in major cities across the United States, Canada, and Japan, the company aims to improve user engagement through natural voice interactions across various industries.
Snow Corporation
Venture Round in 2016
Snow is the developer and operator of the selfie pic and video app SNOW, featuring face recognition-enabled stickers and GIF-enabled chat functionality. With SNOW, users pick from over 700 stickers and 30 types of filters to liven up their photos and videos, then send the finished product to their friends or post them within the SNOW app to give their friends a peek into what they are up to now. User numbers have been growing steadily since the app first launched in Korea, with service being expanded to Japan and China in November 2015 and February 2016, respectively. In Japan, the number of users has been growing rapidly, and the app has been ranked as No.1 in both iOS App Store’s free app Photo & Video category and Google Play’s Photography category.
TriFort
Venture Round in 2016
TriFort, Inc. is a Japanese publisher and developer of mobile video games, primarily targeting Android and iOS platforms. Founded in 2012 and headquartered in Tokyo, the company focuses on creating engaging smartphone applications and collaborates with other publishers to develop games from the planning stages through to completion. TriFort also operates a social gaming platform that provides cloud-based gaming services, allowing users to enjoy games while interacting with their social media applications. As of October 2018, TriFort operates as a subsidiary of UNITED, Inc.
Wonderplanet
Corporate Round in 2016
Wonderplanet Inc., established in 2012 and headquartered in Nagoya, Japan, specializes in the design and development of native language applications and games tailored for smartphones and tablets. The company creates both 2D and 3D games compatible with iOS and Android platforms.
Wit studio
Acquisition in 2015
Wit Studio, established in June 2011 in Seoul, Korea, specializes in developing user interface software aimed at enhancing the efficiency of UI designers and developers. The company offers a range of tools, including Assistor, a mini-tool for Photoshop that aids in GUI design guide operations; Codinator, which streamlines the creation of GUI designs; and Grappic, a platform for users to search and collect iOS app designs from the app store for reference. Wit Studio's products include features such as layer snips, rounders, tilers, unit converters, and various guidelines for position, size, and spacing, all designed to improve the workflow of graphical user interface design.
Pocket Concierge
Corporate Round in 2015
Pocket Concierge is a Japanese online platform facilitating restaurant reservations at selected high-end establishments. Its mission is to promote Japanese culinary culture globally while offering users an exclusive dining experience. The platform enables seamless bookings and payments, overcoming language and payment barriers for both mobile and web browser users.
3 Minute
Venture Round in 2015
3 Minute is a specialized content production agency focused on managing and developing female YouTube influencers. The company recruits popular models and celebrities, providing them with the necessary support to create and promote engaging video content. By concentrating on producing attractive and concise videos, typically around three minutes long, 3 Minute helps influencers establish their careers as content creators. This business model not only enhances the visibility of the talents but also allows them to generate revenue through advertising proceeds on their YouTube channels.
WebPay
Acquisition in 2015
WebPay Holdings, based in Tokyo, Japan, specializes in web payment processing solutions. Originally known as Fluxflex, the company has transitioned to focus on providing a scalable shared web hosting service tailored for LAMP applications. This service includes an automated file synchronization system that allows users to seamlessly develop and test web services. Users can easily implement modifications to their applications in a production environment, utilizing an auto-scaling, distributed multi-layered server architecture with a single command. As of February 2015, WebPay Holdings operates as a subsidiary of LINE Pay Corporation.
MixRadio
Acquisition in 2014
MixRadio is the perfect FREE app for music lovers who like to discover fresh new tunes every day.
MixRadio
Acquisition in 2014
MixRadio is the perfect FREE app for music lovers who like to discover fresh new tunes every day.
4:33 Creative Lab
Private Equity Round in 2014
4:33 Creative Lab is a leading mobile game development company based in South Korea. Specializing in the creation of social interactive online and mobile games, the company offers a diverse range of genres, including action, sports, and adventure. Its primary focus is on developing and publishing engaging gaming experiences that enhance user interaction. By leveraging innovative design and technology, 4:33 Creative Lab aims to provide gamers with an optimal platform for enjoyment and engagement in the digital gaming landscape.
Translimit
Seed Round in 2014
Translimit, Inc. is a Japanese company founded in 2014 and based in Shibuya-ku, Japan. It specializes in designing and developing mobile applications, notably the quiz app BrainWars, which engages players in competitive mental exercise games. The company was established by Hiroki Takaba and Takuma Kudo, both of whom have a background in game development from their previous roles at CyberAgent. Translimit's portfolio includes a focus on online games that encompass brain training, puzzles, strategy, and sports, catering to users on both Android and iOS platforms. Additionally, the company is involved in the Movida Japan incubation program, furthering its commitment to innovation in the gaming industry.
gumi
Corporate Round in 2014
gumi Inc. is a Japan-based entertainment company that specializes in developing, operating, and distributing online games for mobile devices. Founded in 2007 by CEO Hironao Kunimitsu, gumi has expanded its presence internationally, with multiple subsidiaries across Asia, Europe, and North America. The company provides a diverse range of services, including native application development, browser-based gaming, and game localization for third-party content. In addition to its core gaming business, gumi is actively involved in the blockchain sector and explores emerging technologies within the XR space, encompassing virtual, augmented, and mixed reality. Headquartered in Tokyo, gumi aims to deliver engaging gaming experiences while maintaining a creative and passionate approach to content development.